national science day

National Science Day 28th Feb: Inspiring History & Impact

Published on August 25, 2025
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5 Min read time

Quick Summary

  • National Science Day is celebrated annually on February 28 to honor Sir C.V. Raman’s discovery of the Raman Effect (1928).
  • The day promotes scientific temper, innovation, and India’s achievements in space, AI, and quantum tech.
  • Each year follows a theme—2025 focuses on “Empowering Youth for Global Leadership in Science.”
  • Events include lectures, exhibitions, and awards by DRDO, ISRO, and NCSTC.
  • Highlights India’s progress in research, patents, and Viksit Bharat goals.

Table of Contents

Science Day is celebrated on February 28th annually, marking a pivotal moment in India’s scientific history. Which day is celebrated as National Science Day? The 28th of February was chosen to commemorate the National Science Day India Date History – specifically Sir C.V. Raman’s groundbreaking 1928 discovery of the Raman Effect at Calcutta’s Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS). This date holds dual significance as both the anniversary of Raman’s Nobel Prize-winning discovery and the official science day established by the Indian government in 1986.

History of National Science Day

The national science day observance traces back to February 28, 1928, when Raman first observed the light scattering phenomenon that would revolutionize physics. The national science day india date history formally began when the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) proposed establishing this commemoration in 1986. The government approved, making 1987 the first official celebration. This date was specifically selected because Science Day is celebrated on the anniversary of Raman’s discovery, answering which day is celebrated as the country’s Science Day for future generations. Raman’s achievement made him Asia’s first Nobel laureate in science when he received the Physics prize in 1930.

National Science Day celebrating C.V. Raman and his discovery

The Raman Effect: Scientific Breakthrough

At the heart of National Science Day celebrations is Raman’s discovery that when light passes through transparent materials, some photons change wavelength, now known as Raman scattering. This science day theme has made fundamental principles crucial for:

  • Chemical analysis (identifying molecular structures)
  • Medical diagnostics (cancer detection)
  • Pharmaceutical research (drug development)
    The phenomenon’s significance makes it a perennial science day theme discussion point, especially. during Science Day 2025, when quantum applications will be highlighted.

National Science Day Theme 2025: Quantum Frontiers

Science Day 2025 features the official science day theme 2025: “Quantum Technologies: India’s Next Revolution”. This science day theme focuses on:

  • AI integration in scientific discovery, the science day theme 2025, represents India’s commitment to next-generation technologies, making Science Day 2025 particularly significant for students and researchers.
  • Quantum computing research
  • Photonics advancements

2025 Celebrations & Events

Science Day 2025 will feature nationwide activities including:

  1. IACS Kolkata: Exhibition of Raman’s original equipment with quantum tech demos.
  2. ISRO Centers: VR simulations of Chandrayaan-4 missions.
  3. Schools Nationwide: Robotics competitions aligned with the national science day theme 2025.

Why We Celebrate: Lasting Impact

  1. Honoring scientific legacy (national science day indian date history)
  2. Inspiring future innovators (science day 2025 focus)
  3. Promoting scientific temper (science day theme discussions)
    This trinity of objectives makes Science Day is celebrated on February 28th, particularly significant in India’s academic calendar.

Themes of National Science Day

Since 1999, the Science Day has been commemorated with a specific thematic focus each year. The thematic progression is as follows:

YEARTHEME
1999Our Changing Earth
2000Recreating Interest in Basic Science
2001Information Technology for Science Education
2002Wealth From Waste
200350 years of DNA & 25 years of IVF – The Blueprint of Life
2004Nurture Nature for Our Future
2005Celebrating Physics
2006Nurture Nature for our Future
2007More Crop Per Drop
2008Understanding the Planet Earth
2009Expanding Horizons of Science
2010Gender Equity, Science & Technology for Sustainable Development
2011Chemistry in Daily Life
2012Clean Energy Options and Nuclear Safety
2013Genetically Modified Crops and Food Security
2014Fostering Scientific Temper
2015Science for Nation Building
2016Encouraging Scientific Awareness in the Community
2017Science and Technology for Specially Abled Persons
2018Science and Technology for a Sustainable Future
2019Science for the People, and the People for Science
2020Women in Science
2021Scientific Issues for the Development of the Nation
2022Integrated Approach in S&T for Sustainable Future
2023Global Science for Global Wellbeing
2024Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat
2025Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science & Innovation for Viksit Bharat

National Science Day 2024

Science Day is celebrated on February 28 annually, a date embedded in the national science day india date history to honor Sir C.V. Raman’s discovery of the Raman Effect. The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) marked the Science Day 2024 with nationwide lectures, open labs, and the Defence Science Forum’s flagship event in New Delhi. Chairman DRDO highlighted the science day theme alignment with India’s Viksit Bharat vision.

2024 Theme: Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat

This science day theme emphasized home-grown innovations in AI, space tech, and renewable energy. It celebrated India’s rise to top-five in research publications and Chandrayaan-3’s historic lunar landing – key milestones reflecting the theme’s focus on self-reliance.

Awards and Recognitions for Scientists on Science Day

National Awards by DST:

  • Established in 1987 by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) to encourage excellence in science popularization and communication, promoting a scientific mindset.

Awards Presented on Science Day:

  • National S&T Communication Awards: Recognizes exceptional contributions in science communication.
  • AWSAR Awards (Augmenting Writing Skills for Articulating Research): Honors outstanding writing in scientific research.
  • SERB Women Excellence Awards: Celebrates the achievements of promising women scientists.
  • Rajendra Prabhu Memorial Appreciation Shield: Awarded for notable work in science media and journalism.

National Science & Technology Communication Awards

Award CategoryRecipient(s)Prize
National Award for Outstanding Efforts in S&T CommunicationKarnataka Science and Technology Academy, Bengaluru₹5,00,000, a memento, and a citation
National Award for Outstanding Efforts in S&T Communication through Print Media1. Prof. Mayadhar Swain, Bhubaneswar
2. Dr. Biju Dharmapalan, Thiruvananthapuram
₹2,00,000 each, a memento, and a citation
National Award for Outstanding Efforts in S&T Popularization among Children1. Dr. Krishnarao Appasani, Hyderabad
2. Dr. Uday Kumar Kakroo, New Delhi
₹2,00,000 each, a memento, and a citation
National Award for Outstanding Efforts in Translating Science & Technology LiteratureShri Tarun Kumar Jain, Jaipur
National Award for S&T Communication through Innovative and Traditional MethodsShri Anjan Banik, Agartala₹2,00,000, a memento, and a citation
National Award for S&T Communication in the Electronic MediumShri Rakesh Andania, New Delhi

Acknowledging Indian Scientific Achievements

Indian scientists have made notable contributions to various scientific disciplines. Their work has enriched humanity’s understanding and improved our quality of life, from pioneering discoveries to groundbreaking innovations. Some notable achievements include:

  • Raman Effect
  • Space Exploration
  • Nuclear Science
  • Information Technology (India’s IT industry)

AWSAR Award (Augmenting Writing Skills for Articulating Research)

AwardWinner
Outstanding Story (PDF category)Dr. Amritesh Kumar, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras
AWSAR Award: First Prize (PhD category)Ms. Neha Parashar, Indian Institute of Technology, Patna
AWSAR Award: Second Prize1. Ms Monica Pandey, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad
2. Ms. Rohini B, Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore
AWSAR Award: Third Prize1. Ms. Monica Pandey, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad
2. Ms. Rohini B, Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore

SERB (Science and Engineering Research Board) Women Excellence Award Winners

NameDetails
Dr. Ruta KaleAwarded for outstanding contributions in research.
Dr. Ashima BhaskarRecognized for excellence in her field.
Dr. Debashree ChakrabortyHonored for significant research achievements.
Dr. Mudrika KhandelwalCelebrated for exceptional contributions to science.
Dr. Binita PathakAcknowledged for her remarkable research work.
Dr. Nitika SandhuRecognized for her outstanding research contributions.
Dr. Chandni UAwarded for excellence in scientific research.
Dr. Neha KhatriHonored for her impactful research work.
Dr. Yogita K. AdlakhaCelebrated for her significant contributions to science and engineering.

Conclusion

National Science Day is a special celebration that honors the amazing world of science. It’s not just about recognizing scientists’ achievements. It’s also a day to celebrate our natural curiosity and the joy of exploring. We participate in exciting activities like exhibitions, workshops, and competitions during the Science Day. During this Day, a variety of engaging activities are organized, including exhibitions, workshops, and friendly competitions. From the enigmatic discovery of the Raman Effect to the astounding accomplishments in space exploration, scientists have made remarkable contributions.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Whose birthday is National Science Day?

Sir CV Raman discovered the Raman Effect, which we celebrate on National Science Day to commemorate this significant scientific discovery.

Who is the founder of the National Science Day?

It was established through an initiative by the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC).

Which day is celebrated as National Science Day?

Yes, the National Science Day is celebrated on the 28th of February every year.

When was National Science Day first celebrated?

The first celebration took place on February 28, 1987, marking the beginning of this annual observance

What is the theme for National Science Day 2025?

The theme for National Science Day 2025 is “Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science & Innovation for Viksit Bharat.” It highlights the role of young minds in advancing science and technology, supporting India’s vision of becoming a developed and self-reliant nation by 2047.

Authored by, Muskan Gupta
Content Curator

Muskan believes learning should feel like an adventure, not a chore. With years of experience in content creation and strategy, she specializes in educational topics, online earning opportunities, and general knowledge. She enjoys sharing her insights through blogs and articles that inform and inspire her readers. When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her hopping between bookstores and bakeries, always in search of her next favorite read or treat.

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